Market Minute: Volatile lettuce market as harvesting begins in the desert
Lettuce was brought to the Americas from Europe by Christopher Columbus in the 15th century and has come a long way since that time. Astronauts even tested lettuce in 2016 as part of growing food in space. Consumers love lettuce and purchase large amounts from retailers. Lettuce is the most popular refreshing choice in salads, sandwiches, hamburgers, tacos and even roasted.
The transition from Salinas to the Southern California and Arizona winter desert growing region has made it a tight escalated market. But harvesting has begun in Yuma and should start to ease as product becomes more plentiful.
Iceberg lettuce from the early desert harvest is showing a fairly good demand and steady market. Heads are lighter in weight but with good quality.
Green, red and Romaine lettuce are in a steady market with moderate demand.
Spring mix is currently very limited at this point due to insect and mildew conditions. This is causing lower shelf-life breakdown. Hopefully, as the growing season and supplies progresses, the markets will ease off.
These are often some complicated stages between the move from one farming region to another during the summer/fall to winter production. Lettuce will still be available as the volume increases based on favorable weather conditions and other farming aspects. Meanwhile, rely on your lettuce suppliers for updated information and keep your displays in business for your customers.
